OFFSHORE EUROPE SPOTLIGHT ON LEADERSHIP … · OFFSHORE EUROPE Delegation returns full of positivity SPOTLIGHT ON LEADERSHIP Developing successful leadership programme FIFE BUSINESS

OFFSHORE EUROPEDelegation returns full of positivity

SPOTLIGHT ON LEADERSHIPDeveloping successful leadership programme

FIFE BUSINESS WEEK Inspiring programme of eventsfrom 6th – 10th November

ENTERPRISE HUB FIFEA thriving new Business Hub

fbmFIFE BUSINESS MATTERS www.fifebusinessmatters.co.uk

40ISSUE

AUTUMN 2017

Fife BusinessNews

INSIDE: MAKING IT IN FIFE

SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT

FOCUSING ON

MANUFACTURING

IN FIFE

COORSTEK HELPS FIGHT CANCER

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04Business BriefsA round-up of Fife business news

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Fife Business Week 2017 The eighth annual Fife Business Week runs from 6th to 10th November

14News from Invest in FifeAnother milestone for the Levenmouth Community Energy Project

10Business Gateway Fife UpdateA showcase of businesses benefiting from business advice

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Fife Entrepreneurial Leadership ProgrammeWhat next for the successful leadership programme?

39Events DiaryRound-up of business events in Fife

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Contents

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Fife Business Matters is published on behalf of the Fife Economy Partnership and is funded by Fife Council Economic Development.

To send us your stories or to request a copy, email: [email protected]

To advertise call: 07775 593935

Fife Business Matters is published on behalf of the Fife Economy Partnership.

This publication is fully protected by copyright and nothing may be printed wholly or in part without the written permission of the publishers.The proprietors of this publication are publishers and not agents or sub-agents of those who advertise therein.

The publishers cannot be held liable for any loss suffered as a result of information gained from this publication.

The views expressed by the authors or articles published in this publication are soley those of the author and are not necessarily the views of or shared by the editor, nor the publisher.

fbm

elcome to the Autumn issue of Fife Business

Matters. 2017 has been a busy and successful

year so far for businesses in Fife – I can’t quite believe

we’re in Autumn already!

Shortly, we will be welcoming the return of Fife

Business Week (www.fifebusinessweek.co.uk),

which year on year successfully engages with a host of

businesses across the region, encouraging collaborative

thinking, innovation and best practice. We’ve an exciting

programme of events lined up, which will take place

between 6th and 10th November at venues across Fife.

Each year, we are excited by the enthusiasm and level of

participation from those hosting events as well as those

attending. If you’ve not already signed up to one of the

numerous sessions taking place during Fife Business

Week, then please do – there’s an event, networking

session, masterclass or seminar to suit all business

needs.

Fife Business Matters continues to be a popular and

well-read business publication, and behind the scenes

Fife Council Economic Development colleagues are

working hard to ensure it evolves, remains relevant and

reflects the business sectors in Fife. Therefore, we are

delighted to showcase a new special feature, focusing

on manufacturing – Making it in Fife. It can be found

within this issue, and showcases the challenges and

successes of our manufacturing sector and how

important it is to the economic growth of the region.

We hear from a number of manufacturing businesses

about their challenges and the steps they’ve taken to

increase efficiencies, improve sustainability and boost

growth. Aligned to the refreshed Fife Economic Strategy

2017-2027, we hope to make this a six monthly

feature, focusing on other key sectors and priorities for

the Fife economy.

In addition to this, we have a number of

interesting articles looking at everything

from trade development to stories of growth

and business milestones. We also hear from

Fife Chamber, FSB and Invest in Fife.

Enjoy this issue of Fife Business

Matters and please do lend your support

to Fife Business Week – let’s make it

the best one yet!

Stephen Doran

Chair of the Fife Economy Partnership

WWelcome

Cover: Mark Cameron, Plant Manager, CoorsTek

34Culture of EnterpriseEnterprise Game goes interactive

FSB updateSuperfast broadband investment welcomed

Fife Enterprise HubFlexible office space is being snapped up

MAKING IT IN FIFEA special manufacturing supplement

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25Business InsightAn advice feature on accessing new markets

16Market Development ProgrammesSDP takes smaller businesses to a larger stage

04 Business Briefs

ack Pryde’s love of his hometown Dunfermline, led to

his business venture, DiscoverDunfermline Tours.

Offering tours around the historicheart of Dunfermline, Jack set upthe business after many years volunteering as a guide with theDunfermline Heritage Guides. Hetook that passion and enthusiasmand turned it into a business venturein 2011.

Business is thriving. Jack has astrong diary of bookings, the majority of which come through itswebsite, as well as from cruiseships berthing in the River Forth.

To support this growth, Jackhas engaged with Fife CouncilEconomic Development for PR andmarketing advice, which is beingdelivered through Business Gateway

Fife’s (BGF) Expert HelpProgramme.

Jack Pryde said: “Born and bred in Dunfermline,

I’m passionate about Dunfermline’srich heritage. We are so fortunate tohave the legacy of Andrew Carnegieand being able to show his humblebeginnings and see how he rose tosuccess with ambition and drive, isextremely inspiring.

“Business is going well. Withhelp from BGF I’m focusing on promoting the business more, andam also looking to identify youngerpeople - the next generation - toget involved in the business and beambassadors for Dunfermline.”

www.discoverdunfermline.com

‘PRYDE’ OF DUNFERMLINE

J

aterson Safety Training set-up in business in December (2016) and has moved to new office premises at the Fife Business Centre at

Mitchelston Industrial Estate, Kirkcaldy. Taking it one step at a time, Gary Paterson is establishing his health

and safety consultancy organically, as he attains key industry accreditationsand establishes a training facility. Having employed one member of staff,further expansion is on the cards.

In addition to implementing procedures and checklists, completion ofaudits, inspections and risk assessments for a number of big clients including Energy Solutions Scotland; Lidl; Logic Lifting Offshore; ArenaStrength Gym; and Intec Analysis, Paterson Safety Training also undertakeshealth and safety assessments for small and medium sized enterprises suchas Kristine salon therapies as well as gardening, joinery and painting services throughout Fife.

Gary Paterson said: “The business is at a really exciting point and I am now ready to press

ahead with growth. I’ve taken my time getting the set-up right, which included engaging with Fife Council Economic Development to get officefacilities; undertaking some Business Gateway Fife workshops to supportmarketing; as well as gaining key industry accreditations such as ISO9001:2015. I’ve also formed a key partnership with Intec Analysis Aberdeento provide predictive monitoring solutions, thermography inspection analysisand thermal energy loss evaluation in the construction industry.”

www.patersonhse.co.uk

NEW SAFETY AND TRAINING FACILITYOPENS IN FIFE

Ppturn Consulting is the brainchild of Alison Graham and Thomas Adams, who joined forces in April 2017 to help businesses to optimise business

processes and reduce operational costs. The dedicated consultancy has delivered an On Time Delivery (OTD)

performance review, with five of the highest impact projects being prioritised with work underway to deliver efficiencies. The team is also working with a Fife company to digitise its existing manual processes through the introductionof a new Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system.

The business has also engaged with Scottish Enterprise Digital Transformation,demonstrating its experience relating to ERP and Materials RequirementsPlanning (MRP) systems. Whilst still early days, this has already resulted in areferral to partner a Stirling-based company on a current ERP project.

Thomas Adams said: “It was a big decision to set up in business, but we’ve worked hard in

engaging with businesses and public procurement managers to offer an accessible, continuous improvement strategy, and know that we can bring significant benefits to businesses – large and small – throughout Scotland.”

Upturn Consulting has been engaging with Business Gateway Fife for start-up support, attending workshops on finance and sales and marketing. It has also seen the benefits of its Fife Chamber membership, having joinednumerous social events.

Alison Graham spoke to fbm. She said: “Business Gateway Fife’s workshops have

supported our set-up and have helped us to position our marketing approach ensuring we promote the benefits of our bespoke, business improvement service.”

http://upturn.consulting

UPTURN IN BUSINESS

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ISSUE 40 AUTUMN 2017FIFE BUSINESS MATTERSfbm

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ICONIC FIFE BRAND OPENS FIRST STANDALONE STORE


SHS EVOLVES

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Tom Mitchell of Puddledub

urface Heating Systems (SHS Ltd) is evolving with the

introduction of a revolutionary newproduct. Its fully patented satellitedish protector has been in development over the last five years,and after a successful trial, it’s nowready to launch for Sky TV dishes.

The complex nature of onlineselling to the domestic market, particularly through Amazon andeBay, has seen the business seekguidance from the Fife TradePartnership to support the development.

This new product, which canreduce satellite signal interferenceduring bad weather, is easy to fit,comes in a range of designs and isaffordable too. It also has the potential to significantly increaseSHS’s turnover and employee numbers.

Mick Cummings, ManagingDirector of Surface Heating Systems,said:

“The launch of our Sky dish protectors is part of a natural growthperiod for the business. We’ve gothigh hopes for this product and arefinalising online sales routes at themoment, and are also in talks withcommercial companies in the UK,USA and Canada. It’s an excitingtime!”

SHS’s specialism of offeringelectric surface heating products tothe oil and gas; renewable energy;and communications sectors hasseen it use a similar concept to create heated clothing, which it successfully promoted at All-Energy.SHS attended the exhibition in Maywith financial support from FifeCouncil Economic Development’sMarket Development Programme.www.shs-ltd.com

For more information about the Fife Trade Partnership email: [email protected] or call: 01592 858333 or visit: www.businessgatewayfife.co.uk

TECHNOLOGY ENABLED CARE

O ran Care is investing significantly in technology and training as it seeks ways of improving standards in the care sector.

Since it started trading in 2012 Oran Care, which delivers individualisedcare programmes, has undergone significant growth. It employs 70 staffand year on year it has doubled its turnover and has plans for furthergrowth.

Oran Care is developing a training offering, and with funding in place itis to build a new facility to deliver a range of training qualifications includingSVQ2 in Health and Social Care. In addition, it hopes to invest in an intermediate care centre offering service users temporary accommodationbetween discharge from hospital and before going home.

Jonathan McFarlane, Director of Oran Care, said:

We’re a small business with big plans.We’ve invested significantly in technologyto ensure a more responsive, real time service, which offers our service users thebest possible care whilst supporting our staffin their roles.

We’re also very focused on our future,which includes plans for a training facilityand an intermediate care centre. Theseplans are in progress and we hope to be setup as a training provider by the end of thisyear.

Oran Care has worked closely withFife Council Employability for help withemployment and the placement of relevant candidates.

www.orandementiacare.com

“

“Jack Pryde of Discover Dunfermline Tours

ne of Fife’s best known food producers, Puddledub,

has launched a new butcherystore on Kirkcaldy’s High Street.

The traditional store showcases the well-known porkfarmed by the Mitchell familyalongside other locally producedmeat, as well as cheeses fromleading cheesemonger IJ Mellisand local artisan breads.

Puddledub opened a pop upstore in Kirkcaldy in April 2017and the strong results and localsupport persuaded the Mitchell’sto open a permanent store, theonly one on Kirkcaldy’s HighStreet.

Owner and Co-founder ofPuddledub, Tom Mitchell said:

“Opening the pop up was afantastic way to see if there wasenough demand locally to bringa butcher shop back to KirkcaldyHigh Street. It really exceededour expectations. Opening thisshop, allows our customers theconvenience of a high streetshop but with assured product

provenance and traditional methods of preparation.”

Bill Harvey, Manager atKirkcaldy 4 All, is delighted withthe news. He said:

This can onlybe good for thetown, for the businesses involvedand for the end customer. If we candemonstrate thatKirkcaldy's HighStreet is a viabledestination for suchan established, wellrespected andmuch loved brandas Puddledub, wecan look to attractmore to try thetown.

www.puddledub.co.uk

“

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Surface Heating Systems’ new satellitedish protector


30 Fife Business Week 2017

ife Business Week is a notable and inspiring programme of events in the Fife business calendar.

Each year, it brings together more and more private andpublic sector organisations to promote business opportunities in the region.

Building on the success of Fife Business Week2016, which attracted around 700 attendees to morethan 30 events across Fife – an increase of more than160 visitors from 2015 – this year’s event takes placebetween the 6th – 10th November 2017.

The week long programme of free events is branded under the Fife Economy Partnership and delivers a series of business seminars, workshops, masterclasses and networking opportunities, focusingon key topics affecting Fife entrepreneurs, businessstart-ups and employers alike.

The week is coordinated with a number of key partners from public and private support agencies, aswell as business experts, to help move businesses forward and secure future success. A range of eventsare being hosted including:

• Funding Your Business Growth – Join the Royal Bank of Scotland to hear about a range of funding solutions and application requirements to helpsupport business growth.

• Making Tax Digital – Led by Henderson Black & Co, this session will explore what the Government’s new initiative really means for businesses, and how local businesses can prepare for these changes.

• Accelerate Your New Business – back for a third year due to popular demand, Acorn Enterprise will explore what running your own business is really like. Inspiration, resources and practical tools will be on offer.

• Attracting International Customers: SEO and Social Media – a practical workshop delivered by Scottish Enterprise to learn how to use effective Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) strategies for business websites and how to develop social media channels internationally.

Fife Business Week also includes the launch of FifeFinance Week, an introduction to an integrated financeprogramme embedded into the school curriculum. Ledby Fife Council Education Services with support fromFife Council Economic Development’s enterprisingresources, local banks, credit unions and social enterprises; it will deliver a range of finance activities to schools in the region supporting the outcomes of theCurriculum for Excellence and Developing the YoungWorkforce agenda.

Stephen Doran, Chair of the Fife EconomyPartnership, said:

We are delighted to belaunching the eighth annual FifeBusiness Week. Year on year theweek long programme of eventssuccessfully engages with a hostof businesses across the region,encouraging collaborative thinking, innovation and bestpractice.

We’ve an exciting programme of events lined up,and look forward to welcomingour new and established businesses to a week of eventsthat will inspire and give themconfidence to flourish and meet the demands of an ever-changing economic environment.

F

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Fife Business Week2017 returns thisNovember, with apacked programmeof events, aimed atinspiring businessesin Fife.

A BROCHURE DETAILING THE EVENTS TAKING PLACE DURING FIFE BUSINESSWEEK IS INCLUDED IN THIS ISSUE OF FIFEBUSINESS MATTERS. For more information, please visit: www.fifebusinessweek.co.uk

fifeweek2017

business

6 –10 NOVEMBERINSPIRING AND SUPPORTINGBUSINESSESIN FIFE

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NEW BUSINESSES THRIVING IN THEENTERPRISE HUB FIFE


32 Focus On: Enterprise Hub Fife

The Enterprise Hub Fifehas got off to a flyingstart. In its first twomonths of business it’s occupied almost 90 percent of its flexible office space to enterprising newbusinesses.

NEW BUSINESSES THRIVING IN THEENTERPRISE HUB FIFE

The Enterprise Hub Fife has seen a very promising response in its first two months of business with

seven out of its eight flexible office spaces alreadyoccupied by enterprising new businesses. It’s alsoseeing a steady stream of innovative and creativeevents taking place in the Hub, with new start andhome-based owners taking advantage of the hotdesking and meeting room facilities.

Opened in May, the Enterprise Hub Fife wasestablished with the aim of providing enterprising individuals and start-ups with growth aspirations,access to a flexible facility, which encourages collaboration, entrepreneurial spirit and networking.

It was originally delivered as part of the strategy byFife Task Force, established by the ScottishGovernment and Fife Council, to mitigate the impactof the closure of Tullis Russell and has been roundlywelcomed by both the private and public sectors.

Lead Officer on the project, Pamela Stevenson ofFife Council Economic Development, said:

“It has been a fantastic team effort by everyoneinvolved and the feedback has been extremely positivefrom the new tenants, delegates of events and peoplewho have used the meeting rooms and hot desks. We are now looking to ramp up activities with someexciting entrepreneurial events and campaignsplanned.”

Councillor Altany Craik, Convener of the Economy,Tourism, Strategic Planning & TransportationCommittee, Fife Council, said:

“The Hub is playing a very positive role in stimulating new enterprises to be established and

helping them, as well as established businesses, tothrive and grow in the local community.

“This is one of the important projects fundedthrough the Fife Task Force, which brought key partners together in the support of economic growthand job creation in central Fife. These first-class flexible business facilities include modern offices withhigh-speed broadband, co-working areas, privatemeeting rooms and a state-of-the-art events space to meet the needs of today’s entrepreneurs.”

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THE HUB WILL OFFER THEFOLLOWING SERVICES:

• Early stage enterprise support for unemployed Fifers and redundant employees

• Access to skills and employability support programmes

• Global entrepreneurial masterclasses via Entrepreneurial Scotland

• Development of community driven social enterprise projects

• Virtual reception services for local home business owners

• Flexible rented POD rooms and small office space

• Business support services via key business partners

• Creative space where schoolstudents can learn more about enterprise and entrepreneurship

• Webinars, training workshopsand business events

For more information on Enterprise Hub Fife call: 0800 254 5200; or email: [email protected]; or visit: www.enterprisehubfife.co.uk

WHAT ITS TENANTS SAY

One of the first tenants to occupy an office within theHub is Stewart Gray of Kaber Helm, a software company, which was set-up earlier this year. He said:

“My colleagues and I had been working remotelyand it was inconvenient for us when we all had to meet. We decided to enquire about the Enterprise Hub Fife’s meeting spaces but when we arrived for a visit, we knew the office space was flexible and suitable to our needs and importantly, an affordable price.”

Stewart added:

“Now that we have a base for engaging and taking on customers, we want to focus on development and push the company forward. We are delighted that there is additional business support available at the Hub that wecan tap into and we’re receiving some marketing advice which should help us too.”

LOOKING FORBUSINESSPROPERTYIN FIFE?Fife continues to be a popular locationfor businesses, as Fife Council revealsthat over 93 per cent of its businessproperty portfolio is leased.

Fife Council’s eclectic mix of propertiesrange from industrial sites, ideal for manufacturing as well as fully servicedoffice units, continue to appeal to localbusinesses with only a handful currentlyavailable for lease including; Unit 3Pitreavie Court, a spacious office facilitywithin Dunfermline. Also available is Suite 1 at Forth House, North RoadInverkeithing, a multi-officed independentsuite with great transport links and privatecar parking. Serviced office facilities withreception and meeting rooms are alsoavailable at Dunfermline Business Centreon Izatt Avenue.

Fife Renewables Innovation Centre atMethil continues to prove popular, withoccupancy increasing from 40 to 70 percent in just 6 months.

Our portfolio of over 300 units continues to grow and we have a diverse collection of tenants throughout Fife. We offer a package which includes assistance from partner organisations to encourage growth and benefit Fife as a whole.

Fife Council has extensive knowledge of the Fife Business Property market and can also help with additional land for business or expansion. Flexible leasing arrangements are available on some units and properties.

Derek Bayne, Lead Officer (Property Management)

“

“

For more information, please contact Fife Council’s Business Property Teamby e-mail: [email protected] or by phone: 0345 600 1359

BUSINESS GATEWAY FIFE, DELIVERING ON BEHALF OF FIFE COUNCIL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, PROVIDES A RANGE OF SERVICESTO NEW AND ESTABLISHED BUSINESSES IN FIFE. IF YOU REQUIRE ASSISTANCE ON FINANCE, STRATEGIC DIRECTION, LEADERSHIPSKILLS OR ARE PERHAPS LOOKING TO MOVE INTO NEW MARKETS, THEN BUSINESS GATEWAY FIFE HAS THE EXPERTISE TO ASSIST.

To find out more, call: 01592 858 333 or email: [email protected] or visit: www.businessgatewayfife.co.uk


Business Gateway Fife

Celebrating its tenthyear in business,Prime Industrial andJanitorial Supplies isreflective of its manysuccesses as it continues to evolve.

CELEBRATING TEN YEARS IN BUSINESS

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his year sees Prime Industrial and Janitorial Supplies celebrate its tenth year in business. As

an independent supplier of industrial and hygieneproducts across Scotland, its customer base is wideand varied (including local authorities, bus companies,children’s nurseries and care homes) and its fast andfriendly service sets it apart from competitors.

Paul Dunning, Purchasing Director at PrimeIndustrial and Janitorial Supplies, said:

“We have learned so much in our ten years ofbusiness, but high on the list is communication. Wecan only be successful and achieve if we share anddiscuss and plan together as a team. We work in a

fast-paced and competitive market where constantvigilance is required on all aspects of customer careand service.”

The business has grown by continuing to investigate new opportunities that can add to its product offering. Last year, it introduced an embroidery and screen-print service for corporateclothing and workwear, which has proven to beextremely successful, gaining it several new contracts.

Over the years, Prime Industrial and JanitorialSupplies has received support from Business GatewayFife (BGF), including: tender submission training; environmental assessment; assistance completing itsstaff manual and Expert Help support for ISO auditsand local land/property purchase feasibility study, to support a planned relocation to larger offices/warehouse in the near future.

Paul added: “Our dedicated Business Gateway Fife adviser,

Lynne Baillie, is always on hand to ensure we are sign-posted in the right direction. The support we’vehad from BGF has benefited the business substantially.”

www.primesuppliesltd.co.uk

A CORKING IDEA

P eter Wood of St Andrews Wine Company has revolutionised his business by taking it online.

Peter founded St Andrews Wine Company in2012, which brings together small, family run, organicand unknown producers. As well as his shop on BellStreet, St Andrews, he’s seen a month-on-monthincrease in online sales following the introduction ofan industry first - virtual wine tastings.

Peter, who has been helped by Business GatewayFife, said:

“Over the past year I’ve seen an average increasein sales both instore and from my website of around15 per cent after I post my own two minute tastingvideos, so firmly believe that as word spreads the liveevents will help sales increase further. Online is whereI really envisage seeing significant growth andBusiness Gateway Fife has helped me maximise mywebsite and strengthen my understanding of SearchEngine Optimisation. The advice I’ve had from LynneBaillie has been very valuable, confirming that mygrowth strategy was correct. Hearing that from someone totally impartial is worth its weight in gold.”

St Andrews Wine Company’s first Facebook Livewine tasting was led by Paul Boutinot of South

African producer Waterkloof Wines and receivedpositive feedback. Viewers tuned in from as far afieldas southern England and Aberdeen, and to date thevideo has had over 850 views.

www.standrewswinecompany.com

Prime Industrial and JanitorialSupplies celebrates ten years in business

A St Andrews’ businessman is usingthe latest advances in technology totransform the wineindustry.

10 Business Gateway Fife

A Glenrothes-basedbusiness has signed amulti-year contractthat will see its products help fightthe global battleagainst cancer.

oorsTek is to supply Teledyne e2v with a range ofengineered ceramics used in its medical products

that are integral in radiotherapy machines throughoutthe world.

The three-year deal formalises a decades-old relationship into an exclusive, multi-year agreementwhich helps safeguard 70 jobs at the Cavendish Wayplant and strengthens the CoorsTek business acrossthe medical sector.

Mark Cameron, Plant Manager at CoorsTekexplained:

“Often we do not realise how the parts we makehere and the customers we support impact our world.More than 90 percent of radiotherapy cancer

C

CONTRACT WIN HELPS FIFEBUSINESS FIGHT CANCER

STAGISON INVESTS IN FIFE

Stagison, a family run business, launched its new high quality, venison care and processing plant in

2016, creating three full-time jobs, including oneapprenticeship.

With a family farming background, Bob and JanePrentice moved to Downfield Farm in 2002 and haveinvested significantly in its processing facility. It startedout finishing deer, obtained a licence to slaughterfarmed deer and more recently opened an on-site cutting and packaging facility for preparing productsfor market.

Stagison received a Food Processing andMarketing Grant from the Scottish Government andthe EU to further expand the facility with the creationof additional chillers and a larder to allow the facility toprocess in skin carcasses from shot wild deer.

Stagison, which is well known for its animal care

and handling to ensure the highest quality producefrom the healthiest of animals, sells to local hotels andrestaurants through Braehead Foods as well as retailsales through Minick of St Andrews.

In setting up, Stagison worked closely with FifeCouncil to support the employment of an apprenticeas well as Business Gateway Fife. Jane Prentice ofStagison, said:

“Business Gateway Fife has advised on fundingavailable for training, business development, brandingand professional help to obtain our British RetailConsortium (BRC) accreditation. We’ve also attendedworkshops on employee pensions and are looking into exporting. This service has been essential in helping us to keep the business moving forward.”

www.stagison.com

Scottish family venisonprocessing businesslaunched in 2016, creating new jobs andprospects for Cupar.

Peter Wood of St Andrews Wine Company

treatment machines use Teledyne e2v products to generate high-energy x-rays used in both the imaging and radiation treatment of tumours. Our contract withTeledyne e2v means we are providing key componentsinto radiotherapy systems which are used to treat cancer and improve people’s lives.”

Mark added: “As vice chair of Business Gateway Fife (BGF)

I was aware of the help and support BGF provideslocal businesses. Working with my adviser, I was pairedwith a business mentor who encouraged me to look fornew opportunities and to strengthen existing customerrelationships. That new focus helped me during talkswith Teledyne e2v.”

Last year, CoorsTek celebrated 35 years of manufacturing in Europe at its Glenrothes base, its firstproduction facility outside the United States.

www.coorstek.com


12 Fife Chamber of Commerce

FIFE CHAMBER WORKS TO CONTRIBUTE POSITIVELY TO THE FIFE ECONOMY BY REPRESENTINGITS MEMBERS’ INTERESTS, ENGAGING WITH BUSINESSES OF ALL TYPES, IDENTIFYING AND DEBATING ISSUES AFFECTING THE FIFE ECONOMY AND LOBBYING LOCALLY AND NATIONALLY TOHELP RESOLVE BUSINESS CONCERNS.

For more information, call: 01592 647740 or visit: www.fifechamber.co.uk

LET FIFE CHAMBER WORK FORYOUR BUSINESS

Sign Plus hasembraced its Fife Chamber membership to support its businessstrategy.

algety Bay-based sign makers and digital print specialists Sign Plus has been a really active

Chamber member in 2017. It has made working withFife Chamber a central part of its business strategy. It has planned to make sure that it always has someone at every event to network and learn; it hasused the E-Shot service regularly for targeted marketing messages and it has sponsored three different events to strategically position its brand inthe market place.

The team at Sign Plus do what works for thembut Fife Chamber has more than 300 other membersand they make their own choices about how andwhen they get involved to make their Chamber membership work best for them. You can too…

If you want to make connections and broaden your network across Fife…come along to Fife Social which is held every month,free and open to non-members to try the experience.

If you want to gain experience, knowledge or fresh ideas about different aspects of business…attend one of our Fife Learn Master Classes orWorkshops.

If you want to increase your brand awareness, treat your hard-working staff orthank loyal customers…our prestigious Fife Showcase events include a Golf Day, Annual Dinner, Fife Business Awards,President’s Lunch and Christmas Lunch.

If you want to trade outside Fife or improveyour export performance… our collaboration with the Fife Trade Partnership, jointevents with other Scottish chambers and recentlylaunched Fife International event programme, willsupport your ambitions.

If you want to market to people directly andget your message seen by over 900 contactsacross the Kingdom…use our E-shot Service – the first one is free!

If you need help growing your business,developing your leadership skills or justneed some general guidance…Business Mentoring is a free service with valuablebenefits.

D

Sign Plus has embraced the range of services on offer from Fife Chamber

INSIGHTS AND INSPIRATION IN EQUAL MEASURE AT EVENTS

ife Chamber’s recent events have seen some of Scotland's most influential and successful

business leaders sharing their business strategiesand experiences with members to help them to prepare for the trade challenges and opportunitiesthat lie ahead.

The Chairman of Scottish Enterprise, BobKeiller, delivered the keynote address to members at

the AGM and Tim Allan, President of the ScottishChambers of Commerce, addressed them at thePresident's Lunch in St Andrews.

Members have also enjoyed inspirational MasterClasses from leading companies such as GSK,Michelin and Insights that have given them invaluable ideas for their own business.

F

Bob Keiller, Chairman of Scottish Enterprise delivered the keynote speech at Fife Chamber’s AGM

he Levenmouth Community Energy Project has reached a major milestone as the Toshiba control

system is now fully operational, which concludes thefinal commissioning step of the project.

The site at Methil, operated by Bright GreenHydrogen and Fife Council’s site at Bankhead cannow maximise use of renewable power as hydrogenvehicle refuelling begins. Both sites are focused onthe ongoing optimisation of the systems ahead of theofficial launch later in the year.

At Methil, wind power and solar power is used togenerate green hydrogen, which is stored on site. Thishydrogen is then used for supplying energy to the surrounding business park, dispensing into vehiclesand providing hydrogen for Fife Council’s Bankheadrefuelling station in Glenrothes.

The Council’s hydrogen refuelling station is uniqueas it is the first station in the UK to be wholly ownedand operated by a Council.

The Levenmouth Project’s fleet of 17 hybrid lowemission vehicles includes two hydrogen RefuseCollection Vehicles, owned and operated by Fife

Council, which are believed to be a world first. All thevehicles have access to the hydrogen refuelling pointsat both sites, reducing emissions from transport inFife.

This highly innovative project, which is delivered by key partners Bright Green Hydrogen, Toshiba andFife Council, has provided the perfect location forToshiba to engage its technology with innovative greenhydrogen applications.

It also demonstrates how we can use locally produced hydrogen to reduce both CO2 and toxicemissions, which is a vital part of meeting Scotland’sclimate change targets. It is also hoped that the project will increase economic growth and reduce fuelpoverty in the area.

The project showcases to other business parks aroute to operating from a renewable microgrid andprovides the opportunity for local businesses and community organisations to have access to zero emission vehicles.

http://brightgreenhydrogen.org.uk

14 News from Invest in Fife

INVEST IN FIFE HAS A PROVEN TRACK RECORD OF HELPING INVESTORS MAKE THEIR PROJECTSHAPPEN AS WELL AS HELPING FIFE-BASED COMPANIES WITH THEIR EXPANSION PLANS. ITSBUSINESS AND CONSULTANCY SERVICES ARE EXTENSIVE AND INCLUDE ADVICE ON FINANCE,PROPERTY, TRAINING, BUSINESS AND PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT AND REGULATOR PROCESSES.Email: [email protected] or call: 01592 583539 or visit: www.investinfife.co.uk

TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUTINVEST IN FIFE


The LevenmouthCommunity EnergyProject is well ontrack with theToshiba control system now fullyoperational ahead of the official launchof the energy projectlater this year.

LEVENMOUTH COMMUNITY ENERGY PROJECT REACHES MAJOR MILESTONE

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The Levenmouth Community EnergyProject’s Toshiba control system is nowfully operational


Businessloans of up to£100,000

NEED HELP FILLING THE FUNDING GAP?

Who we are• Business Loans Scotland provides loan finance up to £100,000

to new and growing SMEs with growth potential• Business Loans Scotland is a consortium of Scotland’s 32

local authorities• In Fife, Business Loans Scotland is managed by Fife Council

Economic Development and delivered by Business Gateway Fife

How can the funds be used?Loans may be used for:• Working capital• Purchase of plant and equipment• Purchase of business property

What to do nextRegister online at www.bls.scot using the ‘Apply Now’ form.

fbmFIFE BUSINESS MATTERS

Making it in FifeSEEKING OPPORTUNITIESTO GROW

Manufacturing:MAKING CONNECTIONS^

SUPPLEMENTSpecial

16


Market Development Programmes

Cupar-based HoriskLeslie Developmentengaged with theSupplier DevelopmentProgramme to transform its tendersuccess.

SDP: taking smaller companies to a larger stage

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Embracing opportunities atOffshore Europe

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strong delegation of Fife businesses has just returned from SPE Offshore Europe. The biennial

exhibition is the largest and technically foremost offshoreE&P conference and exhibition outside North America.

The 2017 event took place between 5th and 8thSeptember with a central theme of ‘Embracing NewRealities: Reinventing our Industry’. Technical and keynotepanel sessions, combined with breakfast and topicallunches, provided a free-to-attend opportunity for Fifebusinesses to debate, knowledge-share and take newcourses of action that will shape the future of the industry.

Lamond & Murray, Ductform Ventilation (UK), AVT Reliability, Raith Systems, Utility ROV Services,ScotAsh and Borland Insurance Brokers joined the Fifeexhibition stand through Fife Council’s MarketDevelopment Programme showcasing the region’s widerange of products and capabilities on offer, a range ofnew technologies, as well as new collaborations, whichhave led to new sustainable ways of working.

Iain Lamond, Director of Lamond & Murray, said: “We’ve participated in Fife Council’s stand at Offshore

Europe for a number of years now. Being part of a bigger stand, showcasing a range of new products andservices, brings with it greater exposure.

“Year on year we have been pleased with the responsewe’ve had at Offshore Europe and see our attendanceas a vital part of our business strategy. It enables us toengage with existing clients, network and showcase ourskills and expertise to interested parties.”

Fife Council Economic Development Team’s Market Development Programme (MDP) is a popular and effective way for Fife companies to showcase their goods and services at events and trade shows.

To find out more, please email: [email protected]

THROUGH THE SUPPLIERDEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME, FIFE COUNCIL’S ECONOMICDEVELOPMENT TEAMHELPS LOCAL BUSINESSESACCESS WORK FROM THEPUBLIC SECTOR. SO,WHATEVER YOUR BUSINESS, PRODUCTS ORSERVICE, THERE COULD BEAN OPPORTUNITY FORYOUR COMPANY TO BENEFIT BY JOINING THISPROGRAMME. For more information, please email Dot Smith:[email protected] visit:www.sdpscotland.co.uk/fife

The Helpdesk system whichHorisk developed for the ScottishSPCA to handle over 200,000 calls per year includes a dashboard to give users and management instant accessto information

Utility ROV Services’ stand at Offshore Europe

oftware development consultancy Horisk Leslie Development has secured its biggest tender to

date with help from Fife Council EconomicDevelopment’s Supplier Development Programme.

The opportunity posed by The ScottishGovernment’s Application Design and DevelopmentFramework was significant and had the potential totransform the Cupar-based business’ fortunes overthe next few years. So, rather than take a chance,Horisk Leslie Development engaged with the SupplierDevelopment Programme for help, support and guidance with the tender process.

Brian Horisk, Director at Horisk LeslieDevelopment, said:

“Our public sector tender success has alwaysbeen a little sporadic. Whilst we always had a goodtechnical story to tell and had good solutions to offer,we didn’t seem to express that in the way buyerswanted to hear.

“The Supplier Development Programme’s specialist showed us a better way to present the business – providing evidence for every claim, including lots of examples and using diagrams andscreenshots rather than just text. They also stressedthe importance of maximising our score in non-technical sections like workforce matters andframework management.”

Building on its experience from the Frameworktender, Horisk Leslie Development has also secured asignificant project with Historic Environment Scotland. Brian added:

“Our success shows that Fife Council EconomicDevelopment’s Supplier Development Programmeservices can help smaller companies like us to compete on a larger stage.”

http://horisk.com

FIFEMAKING IT IN

anufacturing is Fife’s top performing sector in terms of turnover, with output expected to grow

by almost 19 per cent by 2037. It makes a significantcontribution (an estimated £1.4bn) to the region’s totalGross Value Add (GVA) and supports almost 14 percent of the region’s jobs.

Against that backdrop, the manufacturing sector inFife does have its challenges. The global downturn inthe oil and gas sector has had an impact and it’sexpected to see a large decline by around 4,600 jobsbetween 2016 and 2037.

Despite falling employment, gross wages and output have risen; suggesting a move to higher productivity and higher value employment across thesector as a whole. This is reflected in ScottishEngineering’s Quarterly Review (June 2017), whichreported an improvement in orders, output and staffinglevels. Optimism across the industry shows a considerable increase compared to the previous twoyears and similarly, export orders were higher in the first two quarters of 2017 compared to the preceding13 quarters.

Whether through diversification, innovative solutions,increasing UK and international markets, or more efficient operating practices, businesses are seekingnew ways to grow.

Jerome Finlayson of the Scottish ManufacturingAdvisory Service, said:

“Manufacturing in Fife plays an important role in thelocal economy and businesses are taking advantage ofthe opportunities that exist for growth in manufacturingby focusing on driving productivity improvements acrossa range of areas. As businesses export and innovatethis provides a solid platform for growth and success.”

Jerome added:“Strong, ambitious leadership is at the heart of the

manufacturing sector in Fife. With the drive, ambitionand vision of these leaders who are embracing andadapting to new technologies as well as starting to usedata to drive operational performance, productivity isimproving. These are just some of the key indicatorsthat highlight that the future is bright for manufacturingin Fife.”

There is a plethora of support available to help safeguard the future of local businesses. Whether it’sthrough short-term resilience strategies; a review ofLean Manufacturing practices; trade and exportingadvice; funding or grants to support investment and create jobs, or enable business development, FifeCouncil Economic Development and its key deliverypartners can help prioritise mainstream support to allowfor growth at the appropriate level for individual businesses.

Councillor Altany Craik, Convener of the Economy,Tourism, Strategic Planning & Transportation Committee,Fife Council, said:

Investing in Fife’s manufacturing businesses is vital to the local economy and we’restriving to give these businessesflexible and tailored support toenable them to sustain and flourish.

MThe future looksbright for Fife’s manufacturing sector.

Focus on: Manufacturing

ISSUE 40 AUTUMN 2017 SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT: MANUFACTURINGFIFE BUSINESS MATTERSfbmISSUE 40 AUTUMN 2017 SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT: MANUFACTURINGFIFE BUSINESS MATTERSfbm

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For more information about support for manufacturing businesses in Fife, please contact Business Gateway Fife. Call: 01592 858 333; email: [email protected] visit: www.businessgatewayfife.co.uk

19

Special Report

KDM Shopfitting isenjoying a busy second half of theyear; a time that’s traditionally busy for the Dalgety Baybased contractor.

A FITTING SUCCESS STORY

DM Shopfitting has come a long way since it was formed in 1998, but it’s not always been easy. In

2015, it lost a significant amount of business from a client,which contributed approximately 70 per cent to its turnover, leaving the business in a difficult trading position.

KDM’s proactive response to this situation has provideda robust platform for growth. Its honesty and open communication with stakeholders about its challenges,earned its Directors respect and time to look for newclients, and to bring in key personnel.

Reducing risk, seeking advice from SMAS and ScottishEnterprise has resulted in KDM operating more efficiently.It’s reviewed its manufacturing processes; analysed manhours; has taken a tighter control of stock; and improvedinternal communication by investing in a new CMS system.

2016 returned a healthy profit for KDM, which employs54 full-time members of staff at its 15,000 sq.ft. manufacturing facility. Turnover is projected to increase toaround £12.2 million this year.

Mark Jones, Director of KDM Shopfitting, said: "Often when a business is doing well and returning

strong profits, costs are not interrogated as they should be.But, our downturn forced us into a position where we had tostrip out unnecessary costs and improve efficiencies, whichwe have maintained throughout our recovery.

“We’ve made a number of significant changes to theway we do business, including spreading our portfolio, all ofwhich has benefited our operations, our margins and givenus a solid foundation on which to develop our businessthroughout the UK from our hub in Fife.”

www.kdmshopfitting.com

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DIGICO EXPANDS PRODUCTION CAPACITYigital solutions manufacturer DiGiCo, part of the Audiotonix Group, has opened its newest production

facility in Glenrothes. The larger facility is 200 metres fromits existing unit – its location, as much as its growth opportunity, was of paramount importance.

Tony Williams, Audiotonix Group Operations Director, said:“It was vitally important for us to stay as close to our

original location as possible. This has allowed us to retainthe skills and knowledge of longstanding employees, someof whom have over 20 years of service with us. We valuetheir loyalty, dedication to quality and in-depth knowledge of our complex products.”

Tony continued: “With the additional space, the factory layout has also

been fully reviewed, with the result that all the manufacturing

processes have been integrated to ensure efficiency, and tominimise non-value operations.

“The assembly lines have been designed to be flexibleand can be reconfigured quickly to deal with peaks indemand for products. We have also been able to integratepacking and dispatch into the manufacturing processing,which allows us to ship products more quickly.”

DiGiCo’s General Manager, Austin Freshwater, said: “It is fantastic to have the new factory fully operational.

The really exciting thing is that everyone, from our staff toour customers will benefit from the new factory, and it willallow us to improve upon the great service we are alreadyknown for.”

www.digico.biz

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SMAS SUPPORT PRODUCESUNIQUE RESULTS

St Vincent Plaza, Glasgow – KDM Shopfitting manufactured andinstalled the reception, seating and wall cladding

amond & Murray, which manufactures gears and special purpose gear boxes, engaged with the

Scottish Manufacturing Advisory Service (SMAS) following its significant investment in new machinery.

Alastair Lamond, Managing Director of Lamond & Murray, explains:

“Having invested in new equipment to grow thebusiness, there was a need to look at our physicalworking environment. We knew efficiencies could bemade, but needed external guidance.

“We devoted a lot of time to SMAS’s 5 S programme, which achieved quite unique results. We involved the whole team in the process, downingtools on a Friday afternoon to discuss ideas toimprove workshop areas and then implemented thosechanges. Importantly, employee morale has improvedand the culture transformed.”

Lamond & Murray also reported an improvementin its efficiency by fifteen per cent and is proud of itsworkplace. It has hosted a number of SMAS bestpractice workshops at its Inverkeithing facility.

SMAS has further assisted Lamond & Murray withits MRP (Material Requirements Planning) systemhelping with production planning and scheduling tomanage manufacturing processes, whilst Fife CouncilEconomic Development’s Market DevelopmentProgramme supported its attendance at OffshoreEurope. Scottish Enterprise has also undertaken aresilience review of the business, which considerednew markets to facilitate growth. This has broughtabout a successful shift to further supplying the steeland automotive industries as well as the food anddrink sector, from which it has gained new clientsspecialising in brewing, distilling and malting.

www.lamondandmurray.co.uk

LREWARDING INNOVATION IN FIFE

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Spotlight On: R&D Tax Credits

Amongst the many Fife clients to benefit from R&D tax credits is DP Services.Colin Millar of DP Services, said:

“Having EQ Accountants on board as experts opened our eyes to the potential to make a claim and review the broad range of activities and expenditure thatqualify. I'd advise other companies to look very closely at their range of activities, as they might be surprised as to what qualifies.”

www.eqaccountants.co.uk

oss Oliphant, Partner in EQ Accountants’ Glenrothes office, explains how Fife’s engineering and manufacturing sectors could be missing out on valuable tax reliefs.

As a member of the Chartered Institute of Taxation and with his Gold Standard qualification in tax, Ross is able to offer the highest level of advice and expertise in allaspects of tax planning.

The engineering and manufacturing sectors contribute significantly to the Fifeeconomy. By investing in research, development and innovation, these companies playa key role in maintaining the UK’s international competitiveness. However, studies suggest that many companies are leaving valuable Research and Development(“R&D”) tax reliefs unclaimed from HMRC.

With Fife being a breeding ground for innovation, could your company be missing out?

fbm: So, what are R&D tax credits?Ross: R&D tax credits are a government tax incentive aimed at helping UK companies by encouraging and rewarding innovation. The greater investment made inresearch, development and innovation, the greater the benefits to both individual companies and the wider UK economy.

Many companies see R&D tax credits as an important source to fund furtherinvestment, which is especially important in the current economic climate.

fbm: Who can claim?Ross: Whatever size or sector, a company that is taking a risk by attempting to“resolve scientific or technological uncertainties” could qualify for R&D tax credits. This includes creating new products, processes or services, or, changing or modifyingan existing product, process or service. In addition, a project that is not successfulcan also qualify.

fbm: How much could companies be missing out on?Ross: This depends on the size of the company. There are two schemes, asmall/medium sized scheme and a large scheme. For an SME, the R&D tax creditrates range from 25p to 33p for every £1 of qualifying expenditure.

fbm: So why are some companies failing to claim?Ross: There is a common misconception that R&D tax credits only apply to pure,‘white-coat’ research and development activities, or to companies with an establishedR&D team. However, there are so many sectors where R&D claims are possible. EQ has successfully assisted many companies in the following sectors: engineering, manufacturing, food and drink and software. We could also help your company!

THE SCOTTISH MANUFACTURING ADVISORYSERVICES’ BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT ACADEMY ISDESIGNED TO SUPPORT AMBITIOUS AND GROWINGBUSINESSES THAT RECOGNISE THE NEED TOENGAGE WITH THE CONCEPT OF SUSTAINABLECONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT BY COMBINING BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT TOOLS WITH CULTURALAND BEHAVIOURAL CHANGE.

For more information, email: [email protected]

Lamond & Murray manufactures gears and special purpose gear boxes

CASE STUDY

HAVELOCK LAUNCHES NEW INTERIOR RANGEnterior solutions specialist Havelock has recently launched ‘Imagine’, a new range of nursery and primary

furniture. Introduced at Havelock’s new showroom in May,children from Cowdenbeath Primary School tried out thenew ‘Imagine’ furniture range, which has been designed andmanufactured by staff in Kirkcaldy.

Through its education brand ESA, Havelock has a longheritage of creating progressive learning spaces. ‘Imagine’ isthe company’s latest range of furniture, developed in consultation with schools and local authorities and designedfor structured learning and imaginative play.

The furniture is manufactured at Havelock’s factory inKirkcaldy, one of the largest in-house timber, metal andsolid surfacing facilities in the UK. Havelock’s participationin the Fife economy dates back to 1869 when AlexanderHenry McIntosh started making elaborate cabinetry byhighly skilled craftsmen.

The tradition of skilled craftsmanship continues to this dayat Havelock. While automated machine centres are used incomponent manufacture, Havelock relies on skilled operativesand many of its bespoke pieces are finished by hand.

Now at Havelock, craftsmanship is combined with thelatest in design innovation. Havelock’s design team is usingthe latest digital tools, including virtual reality, to give customers an immersive and visual representation of theirinterior spaces, which enables them to make more informedand creative decisions.

As well as its long heritage in education, Havelockworks across the public sector and with retail, lifestyle andcorporate brands, creating interiors that are both functionaland visually impressive. Its creative work has been recognised with the interiors solutions specialist being shortlisted alongside its agency partners for three RetailWeek Interior Awards.

www.havelockeuropa.com

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DiGiCo has opened a new productionfacility in Glenrothes

Pupils from Cowdenbeath Primary Schoolroadtest Havelock’s new ‘Imagine’ range

Ross Oliphant, Partner, EQ Accountants


20 21

Manufacturing: Sector Shorts

CROSSING THE FORTH

NOV FLEXIBLES UK INVESTS IN FIFE

G lenrothes-based National Oilwell Varco (NOV) Flexibles UK has completed a £500,000 high bay extension to house over £1.5m of new investment in equipment.

The new 6000 sq.ft. extension and installation of new welding equipment and state-of-the-art CNC machinesare enabling the company to continue to lead technical innovation across the oil and gas industry. It is also allowingit to significantly expand its manufacturing capabilities to go after new and larger work.

James Mullen, Operations Director, NOV Completion & Production Solutions, Subsea Production Systems, said:

“The increased capacity and larger machines in the new high bay enable us to offer world-class technology and will open up new future business opportunities. We have already started manufacture of three new product ranges this year, and our future is looking very secure going forward with further growth and job creation forecast.”

T he Queensferry Crossing is one of the world’s great bridges. It is the longest three-tower cable stayed bridge of its type in the world standing 210m above high tide.

Inspiring to look at, the bridge took six years to complete and utilised the local supply chain in Fifeincluding Briggs Marine, the winner of the Outstanding Business Achievement award at the 2017 FifeBusiness Awards.

It has been designed and built to be more reliable and fulfill its long-term duty as a speedy travel linkbetween Fife and the Lothians. Two lanes and a hard shoulder provides flexibility; windshielding providesa more reliable corridor; whilst the use of more durable materials ensures that maintenance can be carriedout without the need to shut the bridge.

£35M CONTRACT INTHE BAG

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DIAMOND CELEBRATIONS FORGRAY & ADAMS

H aving formed in 1957 as a car and body repair business

in Fraserburgh, Gray & Adamsemploys more than 700 peoplebetween its HQ in North EastScotland and four other manufacturing facilities, includingDunfermline.

Over the years, the family-runbusiness has developed and evolveddue to its ability to respond tochanging market demands andchallenges. It offers bespoke vehicles that are created around the needs of its clients’ business,whatever the industry.

mith Anderson has secured a £35 million contract to supply

McDonald’s with its paper bags.Each day, Smith Anderson

produces ten million paper bagsfrom its Kirkcaldy base, with almosthalf of those for McDonald’s. Thisnew, three-year deal is big news forthe company, and will see it expandits operations to supply select markets in Central Eastern Europe.

Michael Longstaffe, CEO ofSmith Anderson, said:

“We are thrilled to have securedthis contract, most especially theEuropean expansion and the benefits these deliver to shareholders and all of our 205hardworking staff into 2020.”

NOV Flexibles UK opens high bay extension. L-R: Councillor Altany Craik(Convener – Economy, Tourism, Strategic Planning & TransportationCommittee); Robin Presswood (Head of Economy, Planning andEmployability Services, Fife Council); Councillor Jan Wincott; Steen Tornøe(NOV Flexibles); Councillor Fiona Grant; Jim Mullen (NOV Flexibles); JanePollock (Scottish Enterprise); Alex Mitchell (NOV Flexibles)

BRAND-REX ANNOUNCES CPR-COMPLIANT CABLE

Brand-Rex, a Leviton company, has launched a full line of copper and fibre communication cabling that meets newly introduced classifications within the EU Construction Products Regulation (CPR).

Brand-Rex was one of the first manufacturers to introduce CPR-compliant cables in 2016, and sincethen it has expanded its portfolio of EuroClass cables.

Ian Wilkie, Managing Director at Brand-Rex, said: “We are leading the way in CPR-compliance and readiness. Brand-Rex has

worked towards this point for many years and has the expertise to help customers understand how CPR will affect upcoming networking projects."

www.brand-rex.co.uk

Celebrating its 60th anniversary, Gray & Adams welcomed HRH PrinceCharles, the Duke of Rothesay to itsFraserburgh factory

Business Insight

Established in 1860,James Donaldson & Sons Ltd, which comprises six separate limited companies, hasgrown significantly in recent years. At the helm of thebusiness is ScottCairns, the first evernon-family member torun the Group. fbmmet him to find outmore about its growth,its ambitions andplans for the future.

FBM MEETS … SCOTT CAIRNS, GROUP MANAGING DIRECTOR, JAMES DONALDSON & SONS LTD

I n the last 157 years, James Donaldson & Sons has grown to become one of the UK’s leading

independent processors, manufacturers and distributors of timber and engineered timber products.From one small branch originally in Tayport, Fife,today it has 740 employees across 28 sites in theUK, 500 of which support its manufacturing businesses.

It is one of Fife’s big success stories; one whichhas longevity and a strong future.

Scott Cairns is the first non-family member tohead up James Donaldson & Sons Ltd, the parentcompany of James Donaldson Timber Ltd; MGMTimber (Scotland) Ltd; Donaldson Timber EngineeringLtd; Nu-Style Products Ltd; and James DonaldsonInsulation Ltd.

The business has grown significantly in recenttimes, from £100m to just under £150m in six years.£108m of that is generated through its three manufacturing businesses, of which half is made inFife at James Donaldson Timber in Leven andDonaldson Timber Engineering headquartered inBuckhaven.

Scott Cairns, Managing Director of JamesDonaldson & Sons, said:

“Growth has been both organic and strategic.The latter by both acquisition and most importantly as a result of major investment projects. Over the lastthree years, we have reinvested over £10m into capability, manufacturing, technology and our people.

“2016 saw a major investment in JamesDonaldson Timber, Leven with the installation of a UKleading White Primed MDF manufacturing plant, whilstcurrent assistance from Fife Council is enabling us toundertake a series of major investments in DonaldsonTimber Engineering’s Buckhaven facility.”

James Donaldson & Sons also added to its portfolio of companies in November 2016 when itacquired Nu-Style Products in Aberdeen, which specialises in Laminate fabrication and the supply and manufacture of roofing and building components.It plans to invest heavily in and grow the business significantly over the next three years.

Scott added: “Our sector is fuelled by consumer confidence,

political direction and market stability. We suffer disproportionately to other sectors when this confidence is shaken and current political machinations are undoubtedly making trading moredifficult. That said, we are pressing ahead with investment in our business capabilities and our workforce and we continue to strive to be relevant andof great service to our clients. Service and quality arethe cornerstones of our market offering and whilstgrowth is our aim we recognise that it must be sustainable growth, operating within our financial andmanagerial means.”

James Donaldson & Sons has engaged withScottish Enterprise and Fife Council for specific areasof support. It is currently working closely with ScottishEnterprise on various projects, including a LeanManufacturing programme for James DonaldsonTimber and Donaldson Timber Engineering, which has been introduced by the Scottish ManufacturingAdvisory Service. Fife Council has also helped itsecure land in Buckhaven to enable future development of Donaldson Timber Engineering.

Scott added:“In recent years, we’ve engaged with Scottish

Enterprise, which has supported us in several areasincluding Lean Manufacturing, energy saving initiativesand IT focused projects. It has been extremely proactive in its approach with us and has assisted inbringing improvements and efficiencies to the business. A strong working partnership with ScottishEnterprise as well as Fife Council has enabled us toinvest, create jobs and will ensure growth in the yearsto come.”

www.donaldson-timber.co.uk


Scott Cairns, Managing Director of JamesDonaldson & Sons

22 23

Specialist Engineering TrainingDelivered in College or your companypremises where appropriate

■ CNC Programming (Fanuc) Lathe■ CNC Programming Milling■ Manual Milling Machine Operation■ Manual Lathe Training■ Non-Destructive Testing (NDT)■ Welder Training and Assessment

Distance/E-learningProgrammesEnhance your career prospects at atime and place that suits you

■ IOSH Working Safely/Managing Safely■ NEBOSH General Certificate/Diploma■ NEBOSH Construction■ NEBOSH International Oil & Gas Certificate■ HNC Fabrication and Welding■ HNC Petroleum Engineering■ HNC Engineering Systems■ HNC Electrical Engineering■ HNC Sustainable Resource Management■ HNC Contracting Management

Distance/E-LearningShort CoursesEnhance your career prospects at a timeand place that suits you

■ Drilling Essentials■ Production Technologies■ Completions and Oil Well Management■ Oil Industry Electrics■ Control and Instruments Basics■ Reservoir Surveying and Engineering Basics■ Wind Turbine Maintenance and Operations Basics■ Fuel Cell Technology Operation and

Maintenance Basics■ Solar PVA Installation and Maintenance Basics

0344 248 [email protected]

Do you work in the oil and gas sector or its supply chain? Are you facing redundancy?Speak to us about funding available for re-training. Call Shona Smith on 0344 248 0132.

www.investinfife.co.uk

EXCELLENT SUPPORT PACKAGE

●Dedicated Project Team ●Training & Recruitment Support

●Finding the Right Property Solution ●Transportation

●Advice on Financial Assistance ●Stakeholder Management

ACCESSING NEW MARKETS

Business Insight

nderstanding the new marketplace, whether it’s selling a product or service in a new region or

country, or whether it’s targeting a new segment of customers, can seem daunting. Considerable thoughtneeds to be given to financial investment, research interms of identifying the right country, and most importantly the commitment of time.

Whatever stage of your business growth journey theFife Trade Partnership can assist. The partnership, ledby Fife Council Economic Development, alongsideScottish Development International, Business GatewayFife and Fife Chamber of Commerce ensures expertiseis available in exporting, legal regulations, market intelligence, finance and more; a ‘one-stop-shop’ serviceto help businesses get goods to market acrossScotland, the UK and internationally.

This single access service was launched in August2015 and has boosted the number of Fife firms successfully entering UK and international markets.

A recent 2017 Fife Trade Survey reported that theUK, the US and Germany are the three most importantmarkets for Fife businesses. Over 70 per cent of businesses that participated in the survey are selling tothe rest of the UK and over 45 per cent are exporting tocustomers outwith the UK. There’s optimism too aboutboosting export sales with almost half (49 per cent) ofexporters being optimistic that sales to the EU willincrease over the next five years, and 58 per cent ofexporters expecting sales outside the EU to increaseover the same period.

Pamela Stevenson, Lead Officer, Fife CouncilEconomic Development, talked to fbm about the services available for businesses looking to tap into newmarkets. She said:

“The Fife Trade Partnership joins up various tradeand export services, bringing support opportunities into aone-stop-shop to equip businesses with the necessarytools needed to access new markets and the associatedgrowth that comes with that.

“Often businesses need advice to evaluate their current trading position and to identify future salesopportunities. Furthermore, awareness of how toaccess in-country knowledge, advice on getting goodsto market as well as possible barriers to entry.Workshops, learning journeys and attending exhibitionsare also a way of gaining insight from experiencedexporters from varying sectors.”

Pamela added: “The aim of the Partnership is to make accessing

new markets as seamless as possible for businessesand our joined up support extends to include advice onexport documentation, legal requirements and finance,including advice on exchange rates, which are anotherarea businesses regularly need support with. We arestriving to engage more effectively as a partnership towork with businesses, to assist them take advantage ofgrowing UK and global opportunities.”

For more information email: [email protected] call: 01592 858333 or visit: www.businessgatewayfife.co.uk.

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Expanding into a new market can be an effective way to grow your business. But it takes a disciplined process to accurately assess the potential of the growth opportunity, for which there is support available for businesses in Fife.

TOOLS FOR ACCESSING NEWMARKETS• Export Readiness Health

Check & Support – helps to evaluate a business’ current international position and identify the next sales opportunities.

• Market Intelligence – equip your company to make informed business decisions.

• Seminars and Training – an opportunity to learn from subject specialists and experienced exporters from different sectors.

• Market Development Programme – get your brand and business profile onto the international showcase through events and trade shows. Fundingis available to participate in overseas trade events, exhibitions and missions.

• Financing and Insuring Your Products – access specialist knowledge and support to ensure you stay in control of yourproducts and income.

• Legal and Documentation – don’t let the errors in the detail be a costly mistake.

• Sales and Marketing – supportwith internet business trading, language services and in-market support to help get products to market.

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EMBER TECHNOLOGY TO DEVELOP NEW TRAVEL SERVICE

2726 Also in the News

C


ife Council has been awarded £300,000 of

funding from the CoastalCommunities Fund (CCF), delivered by The Big LotteryFund, to boost economic growthand create more jobs in andaround Kincardine.

This funding will support anew wave of action focused ondiversifying the local economy in

the coastal communities ofKincardine. The project,‘Discovering Fife Forth –Connecting Coast, Heritage andHistory’, will help to create modern business infrastructureencouraging new, innovativeenterprises and job creation. Newlight industrial workshops will becreated and town centre improvements will be undertaken.

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LOTTERY WIN SET TO BOOST FIFE COASTAL COMMUNITIES

017 is a very important year for Fife Creamery as it

marks its 60th year in business.Recognising that a huge

part of its success is the longstanding relationships it has built with its clients acrossScotland, it is celebrating with a series of events and initiatives,which will centre on its clientbase.

During its 60 years of trading, the business has playeda pivotal role in the wholesaleand distribution market place,adapting to some landmarkchanges and inspiring retailersand caterers with some iconicchilled food products.

Congratulations FifeCreamery!

www.fifecreamery.co.uk

260 YEARS IN BUSINESS

he Little Herb Farm, based in St Andrews, scooped the

Savouries & Accompanimentsaward at the Scotland Food &Drink Awards 2017. The annualawards were hosted by chef andTV personality Simon Rimmerand organised by Scotland Food& Drink and run in partnershipwith The Royal Highland and

Agricultural Society of Scotland(RHASS).

The Little Herb Farm, run byLindsey Anderson, was praisedfor using a range of local herbsand berries to create the unusualTayberry and Sage VinegarDressing. This product was a hitwith the judges.www.thelittleherbfarm.co.uk

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FIFE PRODUCER CELEBRATES TOP FOODAND DRINK AWARD

To submit your company news to fbm, please email: [email protected]

GOING ‘PLAICES’

Wendy Frame (right) has joined Cromars to develop the business

romars Fish and Chip Restaurant and Takeaway in St Andrews has really made a name for itself in just three years of operation.

It has a turnover of £950,000 and at the height of the busy St Andrewstourist season, employs a team of thirty six staff. The business is looking togrow, with another outlet being considered, along with a mobile van to targetthe lucrative weddings and events sector.

It also has a new business partner in Wendy Frame, who has recentlyjoined the business to oversee marketing, customer care, staff developmentand sourcing.

Wendy Frame said:

Cromars is always improving, and I’m committed to helping it grow and developeven more. It’s a constant re-investment,looking at ways of improving our serviceand food quality.www.cromars.co.uk

BINVESTMENT IS ROOT TO FURTHER GROWTH

acking from the Scottish Investment Bank and investment from International French-based venture capital funds FPCI CapAgro

Innovation and Sofinnova Partners, has enabled CelluComp’s patented nano-fibre in finding a host of new uses and markets.

When materials scientists Dr David Hepworth and Dr Eric Whale firstrealised the industrial potential of cellulose nano-fibre extracted from rootvegetables, they went on to consider new applications. Twelve years on, and several rounds of investment later, Curran – which is twice as strong as carbon-fibre – is finding a host of new applications. It can be used inpaints and coatings, paper production, home and personal care products, the oil industry, food, drilling fluids and in the manufacture of concrete andcomposites.

CelluComp’s CEO Christian Kemp-Griffin, said:

It’s taken a long time to reach this point,where we have a product on the market,but now we’re here, we’ll accelerate growth very quickly. We could become a billion-pound company.http://cellucomp.com


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The Little Herb Farm won a Scotland Food & Drink award

GREENFOLD INVESTS IN KIRKCALDY ENGINEERING BUSINESS

F amily owned James C. Gillespie Ltd of Kirkcaldy, has changed ownership.

In a positive move for the business, new investorsBill Taylor, Adrian Gare and Bob Waterson who ownGreenfold Systems Holdings Ltd, took over James C.Gillespie Ltd in August.

Bob Waterson of Greenfold Systems HoldingsLtd, said:

“James C. Gillespie Engineering Ltd has built up a fantastic reputation for over four decades for providing high quality precision sheet metal design and manufacturing services. That reputation is somethingthat customers value greatly and as such we haveretained the Gillespie name in the new business,which will be called Gillespie Manufacturing Systems Ltd.”

“We continue to value and appreciate the supportwe have received from Scottish Enterprise and FifeCouncil Economic Development Services. Employees,customers and suppliers alike can be very excited bythis move and it is our intention to grow and expandthe business here in Kirkcaldy.”

The investors also own Dunfermline basedGreenfold Systems Ltd which also has a facility inRochester, Kent, Greenfold Systems Scarborough Ltdand Excel Assemblies Ltd with facilities in Croatia andBosnia.

Investor Bill Taylor said: “We are very excited to be given this opportunity

to expand our family of manufacturing serviceproviders. The addition of the high value precisionsheet metal services to our family of companies, provides customers with a variety of outsource optionsfrom assembly, mechanical design, metal fabricationand engineering, cable harnessing and assemblies,through to vertical integration to full and part productbuild.”

Graeme Gillespie said:

We felt that the time wasright to merge minds with thenew investment team and aregrateful to the employees, customers and suppliers fortheir support over many years.They can look forward withconfidence to the new regime,which has already invested inbringing in senior experiencedbusiness development talent togrow the business.

Greenfold currently employs 150 staff in its UK operations. Excel employs 800 staff in Croatia andBosnia. The investors look forward to developing additional jobs in Kirkcaldy.

www.greenfoldsystems.co.uk

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“lenrothes company Ember Technology has won a new contract with a transport consortium, led

by ESP Group, to help develop the software for aservice that aims to revolutionise travel for young people in Scotland.

The innovative application will take advantage ofall available transport options in the user's locality -everything from walking, cycling, buses and trains tocar and bike share schemes - alongside concessionsand discounts - to provide one single, optimised

transport network - without the use of a car.Co-designed by young people, the service

intends to offer personalised information, offers,rewards and tailored recommendations to enhancetheir travel options all on one platform, even whenthere are a number of separate travel providers.

The early version will be tested by around 100users between October 2017 and March 2018.

www.ember.ltd

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Paul Stewart, Ember Technology

ISSUE 39 SUMMER 2017FIFE BUSINESS MATTERSfbm

News 29


GLACIER PTS SECURES ACCREDITATION TO SUPPORT EXPANSION

P rofessional Testing Services (PTS) was acquired by Glacier Energy Services in March 2014 and

has been expanding ever since, with the ongoing provision of both Conventional and Advanced NonDestructive Testing (NDT) services.

In June, it achieved its ISO 71020 accreditation(as a Type A Inspection body), which will help supportits growth and development and enable the businessto tender directly for both new build and in-serviceinspection projects with large, world-wide operators.

The business has also successfully secured newcontracts. Most recently investing in new operations inNewcastle - PTS now employs 17 technicians in theNorth East of England, with new projects on the horizon. Ninety per cent of its work is in renewables,and it has bases in Belgium and Holland, whilst alsoproviding technician support and NDT services to avariety of businesses across Central Scotland.

The rest of the business has also seen modestgrowth and there are also plans in place to upgradeits radiography facilities in Methil and it’s also lookingto expand the scope of services from its new base inNewcastle.

Ford Innes heads up PTS’s operations in the UK.He said:

PTS is in a strong position,with its additional establishedpresence in Newcastle andwith achieving our new industry accreditation, to pursue other additional opportunities. We’re embracingthis period of growth and with a promising order book for the remainder of 2017 andinto 2018, business is lookinggood.www.glacier.co.uk

Professional TestingServices (PTS), which ispart of Glacier EnergyServices, receivesUKAS industry accreditation to support business development.

Living Solutions is taking its forestryexpertise to the RoyalBurgess GolfingSociety in Edinburgh.

BRANCHING OUT

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Living Solutions provides a wide rangeof forestry and countryside services

iving Solutions, a dynamic social enterprise and recognised charity based in Cowdenbeath,

offering forestry, tree surgery and countryside services, is branching out taking its forestry expertiseto Edinburgh.

Having taken tree surgery skills to a new levelembracing the challenge of new terrains including golfcourses and greens, has helped it secure work at theRoyal Burgess Golfing Society in Edinburgh.

Reece (21), who heads up the arborist team,joined Living Solutions on an apprenticeship schemein 2016 and quickly demonstrated talent as anarborist. He said:

“I would highly recommend forestry as a futurecareer for any young 16 and 17-year-olds – it has somany interesting aspects to it and being part of thearborist team has given me a lot of confidence. Ahighlight for me is being able to train other youngpeople and see them make the first steps along theirforestry and ‘arbs’ career.”

Living Solutions Leader and Trainer Paul Cruise,who heads up the Rural Skills Academy trainingcourse, said:

I think word is getting outthat forestry is a career for life.We are seeing lively andenthusiastic apprentices coming through the door whoshow real passion for forestryand Reece is one of them – he has shown great leadershipskills and has been an outstanding participant fromthe start.

www.living-solutions.org

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28 Fife Tourism Partnership

FIFE FIVE TOURISM CAMPAIGN A series of shortvideos has beenlaunched to showcase Fife’sbeautiful sceneryand attractions asthe region continuesto entice strong visitor numbers.

new video campaign has launched in partnershipwith VisitScotland and Fife Council to boost

tourism in Fife. A series of short videos under thebanner ‘Fife Five’ showcase a range of popular activities and sites to visit in Fife.

According to The Moffat Centre’s most recentresearch there are around three million visitors to Fifeeach year, bringing almost £439 million into theregion’s economy.

Fife’s stunning landscape was the most citedattraction for visiting the region according toVisitScotland’s most recent Visitor Survey, with theregion also being voted top Outdoor Destination foreight consecutive years.

The new videos showcase Fife’s stunning coastline and countryside as well as a number ofunique businesses in the area, including an awardwinning ice cream parlour, Michelin starred restaurantsand local farm shops selling esteemed local produce.

Fife Tourism Partnership plays a key role inengaging Fife businesses to support the local tourismindustry. Ann Camus, Fife Tourism PartnershipManager, said:

“The Fife Five campaign is a creative campaignshowcasing the best of what Fife has to offer. Thebeautiful scenery and landscape remain firm favouriteswith both local and international visitors and it’s notdifficult to see why. Tourism across Fife peaked overthe summer months with visitors getting a hugeamount of enjoyment from the area and events. Wemust continue to build on this momentum.”

Manuela Calchini, Regional Director atVisitScotland, said:

“The Fife Five is an innovative and exciting campaign that highlights why the area is such a greatplace to visit. These fun videos are sure to leave people with a strong desire to explore Fife and discover more about what it has to offer.”

Visitors and locals are being encouraged to sharetheir own top #FifeFive across social media. All of thefilms are available on the Welcome to Fife YouTubechannel: www.youtube.com/welcometofife.

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#FifeFive – visitors can witness a beautiful combination of countryside, coastline, landmarks and nature fused together with views from the misty mountains of St Monans

FIFE TOURISM CONFERENCE 2017lans are underway for this year’s Fife Tourism conference. Hosted by Fife Tourism

Partnership, the event will take place on Friday 17thNovember 2017.

The previous conference, held in 2015, was a sell-out, so the 2017 event is expected to be muchthe same. It will bring together registered Fife

Tourism Partnership businesses for a fun, information filled session with a great line-up ofspeakers. Pencil the date into your diary to makesure you don’t miss out on an exciting conference.

To find out more about the Fife TourismConference, visit: www.fifetourismpartnership.orgor email: [email protected].

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FIFE TOURISM PARTNERSHIP AIMS TO ATTRACT MORE VISITORS TO FIFE, TO INCREASE SPEND AND TO EXCEED VISITOR EXPECTATIONS BY WORKING CLOSELY WITH TOURISM BUSINESSES AND COMMUNITIES. THE PARTNERSHIP CONSISTS OF 17 MEMBERS FROM THE PUBLIC AND PRIVATE SECTORS AND ITS EXECUTIVE BOARD IS SUPPORTED BY SIX LOCAL AREA TOURIST ASSOCIATIONS, WHICH WILL HELP TO DEVELOP LOCAL TOURISM INITIATIVES AND FEED INTO THE FIFE TOURISM STRATEGY.

Email: [email protected] or call: 03451 55 55 55 (ext 445838) or visit: www.fifetourismpartnership.org

TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUTFIFE TOURISMPARTNERSHIP

ISSUE 39 SUMMER 2017FIFE BUSINESS MATTERSfbm

News

Innovate Foods set toexpand following anaward of RSA fundingto finance new equipment.

INNOVATE FOODS INVESTS TO EXPAND

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nnovate Foods is a leading bespoke solution provider for the food service sector. Originating

back to the 1930’s when the current managing director Tony Dumbreck’s grandfather started growingmushrooms in Scotland, the business uses top qualityingredients.

Tony took over the helm of the business in 1991and has grown turnover to £8 million (to April 2017),with an aspiration to grow that further towards £25million in the coming years.

Innovate Foods, which produces around one million coated mushrooms each week, supplies manyof the UK’s branded high street pub and restaurantchains, wholesalers and retailers. It also exports tenper cent of its revenue. It exports around the world –the first frozen container has just left for Korea; whilstit also supplies products to Japan, Moscow, Turkeyand Kuwait.

To keep up with demand and to position the business to compete on an international scale withmulti-national brands, Innovate Foods has successfullyapplied to Scottish Enterprise for Regional SelectiveAssistance to purchase new equipment and recruitaround ten permanent new members of staff includingyoung people.

Tony Dumbreck, Managing Director of InnovateFoods, said:

“The RSA funding is helping to finance the purchase of new equipment including a larger fryer,additional coating equipment as well as increasedfreezer capacity. This investment will enable us tocope with growth as we expand both domestic andinternational sales further.”

www.innovatefoods.co.uk

GREEN BUSINESS FIFE JOINS FORCES WITH GREENNETWORK FOR BUSINESSES

G reen Business Fife, a not-for-profit organisation set up to help its members grow in business by

networking, improving efficiency and by diversifyinginto green business areas, has agreed a partnershipagreement with the Green Network for Businesses(GNB), which is managed by the Energy Saving Trustand funded by the Scottish Government to supportthe Resource Efficient Scotland programme.

With over 500 members as part of GreenBusiness Fife and an increased profile and use of theGreen Network for Businesses, this partnership willcreate new energy efficient opportunities to benefitlocal businesses.

Green Business Fife and the Green Network forBusinesses will work together to achieve a number ofshared objectives including increasing its event programme to improve business engagement,whether via presentations or best practice site visits.

It also hopes to engage more with local businesses to increase leads and referrals to boostFife’s circular economy and improve waste preventionand management.

Carlene Simpson of Green Business Fife, said:

This partnership offers a boost to our existing programme and aims to helpmore local businesses toengage and create energy efficient opportunities. By working together, we can offermore events including agreater scope of workshops,best practice visits and presentations. A large part ofdeveloping this sector is aboutnetworking and learning fromother businesses that haveundertaken improvements and brought about energy efficiencies.

Green Business Fifehas agreed a partnership agreement with theGreen Network forBusinesses to createnew opportunities forbusinesses in Fife.

Spotlight on: Leadership

A second cohort ofFife business leadershave successfullycompleted the FifeEntrepreneurialLeadershipProgramme as plansare announced forthe creation of analumni community toensure their learningand developmentjourney continues.

FIFE ENTREPRENEURIAL LEADERSHIP PROGRAMME…WHAT NEXT?


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FOR BUSINESSES INTERESTED IN FINDING OUT MORE ABOUT IMPROVING ENERGY ANDRESOURCE EFFICIENCY THROUGH GREEN BUSINESS FIFE AND IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THEGREEN NETWORK FOR BUSINESSES, PLEASE EMAIL: [email protected]

ongratulations to the Fife business leaders who have successfully completed the Fife

Entrepreneurial Leadership Programme. The aim ofthe programme is to create a community of innovationand enterprise amongst the participating businesses,with a focus on enhancing and developing the skillsrequired to navigate businesses through the uncertainties, opportunities and challenges in a fast-moving environment.

Over the last eight months the participants investigated their leadership styles, shared experiences and identified opportunities to grow theirbusiness. Amongst the models and theories discussed, the more practical activities included quiltmaking, jigsaws and computer simulations…ask theparticipants for more information!

Two groups have now successfully finished theprogramme, and the Fife Economy Partnership iskeen to ensure that their learning and developmentjourney continues. The next stages will be to createan alumni community to continue the legacy, toencourage stronger and sustainable businesses, networking, support and sharing of ideas amongst thebusiness leaders. Additionally there will be a series of masterclasses to support micro and small businessesengage in leadership. More will be revealed duringFife Business Week…

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DESIGNED IN PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN THE FIFEECONOMY PARTNERSHIP AND EDINBURGH NAPIERUNIVERSITY, THE PROGRAMME IS FUNDED BY FIFECOUNCIL AS PART OF THE FIFE TASK FORCE.

www.fifeeconomypartnership.com

Fife business leaders pictured after successfully completing the Entrepreneurial Leadership Programme

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Photo credit: Caroline Trotter Photography

he importance of superfast broadband to business and domestic life is well-known, for it

has been a talking point in Fife for years.Communities and individuals want it – and soonerrather than later.

The problem for Scotland of course is its vastsize, coupled with rugged geography and often thinlydistributed population, makes it extremely expensiveto achieve universal coverage. Rolling it out cannot bejustified commercially by major providers like BT,hence all the public money that has been invested inrecent years. However, despite this investment, coverage is still extremely patchy across the country –you can understand why in the north Highlands, butwhy so in a central area such as Fife?

The good news is that the Scottish Governmenthas renewed its vow to deliver superfast connections -with download speeds of at least 30 Mbps - to every business premise in Scotland by 2021. Thisinvestment of between £400 and £600m is very welcome news.

Oddly enough though, the next task is to persuade more businesses of the advantages of signing up for faster speeds once they become available. For despite loud demands from all quarters

for superfast broadband, in reality only around 30 percent of properties that can access it in Scotland actually do so. Business sign-ups will increase, butmany more could and should.

The fact is that while superfast speeds of at least30Mbps will delight many, it won’t drive change initself. Put it this way, owning a sharp knife doesn’tmake one a brilliant chef, so a good broadband connection doesn’t transform a business by itself. It’s not what it is but how it’s used that matters.

The business case for upgrading to superfast isreally strong, for in addition to enabling people to connect to new devices and invest in cloud computingor video conferencing, it also encourages businessesto review the way they operate and improve their productivity through appropriate investments in people,operations, technology and security. Moreover, it canand should lead to improved digital public services inScotland.

To this end, FSB wants funds from the apprenticeship levy in Scotland to be used to supportfirms to increase digital skills at all levels in their workforces. Government must encourage and assistmore businesses to join the digital revolution.

22 Business Comment

FSB’s SeniorDevelopmentManager, Gordon Hendersonwelcomes theGovernment’sinvestment in superfast broadband andcalls for increasedtraining in digitalskills to maximiseopportunities.

TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUTFEDERATION OF SMALLBUSINESSES

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AS EXPERTS IN BUSINESS, FEDERATION OF SMALL BUSINESSES (FSB) OFFERS ITS MEMBERS A WIDE RANGE OFVITAL BUSINESS SERVICES INCLUDING ADVICE, FINANCIAL EXPERTISE, SUPPORT AND A POWERFUL VOICE INGOVERNMENT. ITS MISSION IS TO HELP SMALLER BUSINESSES ACHIEVE THEIR AMBITIONS. ESTABLISHED OVER40 YEARS AGO TO HELP ITS MEMBERS SUCCEED IN BUSINESS, FSB IS A NON-PROFIT MAKING AND NON-PARTY POLITICAL ORGANISATION THAT’S LED BY ITS MEMBERS, FOR ITS MEMBERS.

For more information visit: www.fsb.org.uk or email: [email protected]

BROADBAND INVESTMENT WELCOME


ISSUE 39

THEIR FUTURE IS YOUR BUSINESS

Developing the Young Workforce (DYW) is the Scottish Government’s nationalstrategy for enhancing links between businesses and education.

Here in Fife we are linking employers with schools and colleges to open upthe world of work to young people, to stimulate and grow our future talent.

SUPPORTING YOUNG PEOPLEIt is more important than ever for young Fifers to start thinking about their future career atan early age and to access the skills, knowledge, experience needed to be work-ready.

Supporting all young people into positive destinations and getting more young Fifers into work is atop priority for Fife Council. The council is working closely with Fife College and the business community making sure pupils are well-prepared to meet the current and future needs of local,national and international employers.

Over 3,000 Fife businesses are already helping people become career-ready through OpportunitiesFife and wider employability initiatives. Getting involved through DYW gives businesses furtheropportunities to link with schools and engage, inform and inspire young Fifers.

HOW TO GET INVOLVEDSpeak to a school / college, about your career, business or industry

Host an on-site workplace visit for teachers and/or pupils

Engage in Primary and Secondary Enterprise Programmes

Attend a careers event, or help deliver an interview skills session

Become a STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts & Maths) Ambassador

Raise awareness of job vacancies

Offer a work placement

Deliver masterclasses or mentoring

Take on a school-leaver intern or Modern Apprentice

Engage business in education programmes, design & delivery

Partner with schools and colleges on the Foundation Apprenticeship programme

GETTING IN CONTACTDYW/Employability Coordinator – Ray Fernie ([email protected])

[email protected]

THOMAS’ STORYThomas Alexander from Lochgelly High School said:

My Career Ready experience has been excellent and the programme has given me a huge confidence boost. Going to

business events and being put out of my comfort zone has had a hugely positive impact on me personally.

John Kilgour, Managing Director, Fife Group, Kirkcaldy, said:The programme gets young people out of the school gates, to think out of the box and gain both practical skills and confidence. I havealready recommended Career Ready to other local businesses.

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CASE STUDY

Culture of Enterprise

The popularEnterprise Game hasbeen developed froma board game into a new digital, interactive game,which is soon to belaunched across allprimary and secondary schools in Fife.

FIFE SCHOOLS’ ENTERPRISE GAME

THE CULTURE OF ENTERPRISE FRAMEWORK IS A FIFE COUNCIL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME THAT PROMOTES AND ENCOURAGES ENTERPRISE, EMPLOYABILITY AND SKILLSDEVELOPMENT TO SUPPORT THE YOUNG PEOPLE OF FIFE TO FIND, CREATE AND DEVELOP A FULFILLING CAREER AND A VIBRANT ENTERPRISE CULTURE IN FIFE.

For more information or to support this programme, please contact Sandra Robb, Culture of Enterprise Co-ordinator by email: [email protected] or call: 03451 555555 (ext 447130)

TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUTFIFE COUNCIL ECONOMICDEVELOPMENT’S CULTURE OFENTERPRISEFRAMEWORK

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eveloped by Fife Council Economic Development, the Fife Schools’ Enterprise Game has evolved into an

interactive, digital and challenging introduction for youngpeople into the world of entrepreneurialism and running abusiness.

Originally created in a board game format in 2010, the product has been refreshed and developed into a newapp based format soon to be available in all primary andsecondary schools across Fife.

Fife Schools’ Enterprise Game is a programme ofresources where young people explore business and business planning, understand more about the types ofbusinesses across Fife and roles within businesses.

The animated game, challenges the young people touse their new found knowledge in running their own business and learning about risk management, identifyingopportunities and cash flow as they try to create a successful company.

In developing the Enterprise Game, Fife companiesplay an integral part both in the support they give to theyoung people as well as being showcased in the Game.

The Enterprise Game aligns to the outcomes ofCurriculum for Excellence and Developing the YoungWorkforce agenda.

The Enterprise Game also goes beyond school and willbe available in communities to evolve Enterprise Skills.

Councillor Altany Craik, Convener – Economy, Tourism,Strategic Planning & Transportation Committee, said:

“The Fife Schools’ Enterprise Game has been a valuable tool for supporting the development of enterprise skills in young people in Fife for several years.The development of this app takes the programme to a new level and is another example of Fife leading the way in school enterprise development whilst supporting the outcome of Developing the Young Workforce.”

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Right: The all new animated Enterprise Game


FIFE SCHOOLS’FINANCE WEEK

uring Fife Business Week in November,

Fife Council’s Culture ofEnterprise Programme andEducation Team will be launching the Fife Schools’Finance Week, a week longintroduction to finance education programmes.Created with key finance partners, a challenging andevolving pathway has beencreated to support young people from 3 – 18 years ofage to learn more aboutmoney and finance in experiential programmes,whilst embedding finance as akey element of the curriculum.

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We create brands.We develop brands.We make brands work.

YOUR BRANDIS OURBUSINESS.We are a specialist brand strategy and design agency dedicated to making a real difference to our clients.

For a free brand consultationcontact Martin Budd on 07775 593935 or email [email protected]

Employability

Fife College has beenawarded the contractto provide the firstnational Learningand Skills Contract tothe Scottish PrisonService.

FIFE COLLEGE AWARDED NATIONAL PRISON CONTRACT

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FABRICATING BUSINESS’ FUTURE

B usiness partners Shaun Keatings (23) and Sean Smith (26) set up K&S Fabrication in June this

year, specialising in fabricating and fitting of gates,railings, balconies, stainless steel staircases andstructural steel.

The business has got off to a flying start and iswell-ahead of initial projections. Their quality craftsmanship is in high demand from private customers and they’ve also been headhunted byhousebuilders to undertake blacksmith works.

This has all been made possible thanks to a start-up loan from The Prince’s Trust EnterpriseProgramme. A loan of £7500 was granted to purchase high-quality equipment and tools, stock and a new van.

Shaun Keatings said: “We wouldn’t have gone into business without the

help and support of The Prince’s Trust. The input fromour business adviser was priceless, offering advice onour business plan, finance, marketing, legal and company regulations.”

The next twelve months are looking positive forthe partnership. They have big plans, which Shauntold fbm about:

“Business has been phenomenal. We’re lookingto capitalise on that and grow the business. The nextstep is to be VAT registered; to set up as a limitedcompany, which will help as we seek to tender fornew commercial contracts.”

Marissa Yassen, Business Adviser, The Prince’sTrust, said:

“K&S Fabrication is a great example of a successful and aspiring start-up business, which iswilling to seek advice, help and support to developand grow.”

www.facebook.com/KandSfabrication

Established in June2017 with funding support from ThePrince’s Trust EnterpriseProgramme, K&SFabrication’s productsare in high demand.

THE PRINCE’S TRUST ENTERPRISE PROGRAMME WORKS CLOSELY WITH BUSINESSGATEWAY FIFE TO SUPPORT YOUNG PEOPLE AGED 18-30 TO START-UP AND GROW IN BUSINESS. IT PROVIDES ESSENTIAL FUNDING AND PROFESSIONAL MENTORING SUPPORTINCLUDING HELP TO WRITE BUSINESS PLANS, INTRODUCTORY FINANCE TRAINING AS WELLAS OFFERING LOANS OF UP TO £5000 AND GRANTS OF UP TO £1000.

Visit: www.princes-trust.org.uk or email: [email protected]

K&S Fabrication specialises in fabricating and fitting of gates,railings, balconies, stainless steel staircases and structural steel

Staff and learners from HMYOI Polmontat an event held recently to mark learning achievements. Learners pictured with Tutors Amy Clark, Neil McGaw and Learning CentreManager Audrey Mitchell

ife College has been awarded the contract to provide learning and skills to prisoners throughout

Scotland, giving them the opportunity to unlock theirpotential and transform their lives.

The Scottish Prison Service (SPS) selected FifeCollege to provide the first national Learning andSkills Contract, which will be delivered across all 13SPS publicly owned prisons over the next five years.

The College has a strong track record of workingwith the Prison Service and its new partnership will seeit work with over 3,500 prisoners each month across arange of programmes such as health and safety, peermentoring, e-learning, cookery, arts and crafts.

Courses on offer range from basic literacy andnumeracy through to formal qualifications. All coursesdelivered enhance prisoners’ general life skills andimprove their chances of future employment.

The Fife College contract, worth over £22 million,will employ 130 dedicated staff based in learning centres within the 13 prisons throughout Scotland.The team will work closely with SPS staff to supportthe SPS Learning and Skills Strategy.

Hugh Hall, Principal of Fife College, said:

At Fife College we verymuch believe that educationcan transform lives and we aretherefore committed to workingwith partner organisations suchas SPS to support them toachieve their vision whilewidening opportunities for all.

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Events Diary

Social Media Strategy & AnalyticsWednesday 18th October9.30am – 12.30pm Dunfermline Business Centre, Dunfermline

This seminar looks at many of the numbers that businesses should beviewing when it comes to social media and shows how this data canimpact upon a business’ strategy. Using real, publicly available data, theseminar shows how businesses can sharpen their strategy and also keepan eye on competitors.

In addition, a free in-depth Facebook and Twitter report on attendees’businesses will be provided.

To book a place, call: 01592 858333 or email: [email protected]

2.1 Tender Proceduresand the ESPDFriday 10th November 10am – 1pm Enterprise Hub Fife, First Floor, 1Falkland Gate, Glenrothes, KY7 5NS

This intermediary workshop helps tounderstand the various types of tender,procedures and timescales, whilst alsolooking at the selection stage and completion of the European SingleProcurement Document (ESPD).

www.sdpscotland.co.uk/events/2-1-tender-procedures-and-the- espd-fife

How to Deal with Cancer inthe Workplace Tuesday 28th November5.30pm – 7.30pm Maggie’s Fife, Victoria Hospital,Kirkcaldy

By 2030, there will be almost 1 millionpeople with cancer in the UK workforce.This free workshop is aimed at helpingto understand the emotional, physicaland psychological needs of employeeswith cancer.

To attend, please email: [email protected]

www.maggiescentres.org/workingaftercancer

BUSINESS GATEWAYFIFE EVENTSFinanceBookkeeping2 Oct 9.30am – 12.30pm Venue: Dunfermline Business

Centre Cost: FreeBusiness Expenses25 Oct 9.30am – 12.30pm Venue: Dunfermline Business

CentreCost: Free

Online MarketingSocial Media Basics5 Oct 9.30am – 12.30pm Venue: Saltire House, GlenrothesCost: FreeDigital Marketing Strategy5 Oct 9.30am – 12.30pm Venue: Dunfermline Business

Centre Cost: FreeWordPress Basics9 Oct 9.30am – 12.30pm Venue: Dunfermline Business

Centre Cost: FreeLinkedIn for Business11 Oct 9.30am – 12.30pm Venue: Dunfermline Business

Centre Cost: FreeeCommerce for Business12 Oct 9.30am – 12.30pm Venue: Dunfermline Business

Centre Cost: FreeFacebook for Business17 Oct 9.30am – 12.30pm Venue: Dunfermline Business

Centre Cost: FreeTwitter & Hootsuite for Businesses19 Oct 9.30am –12.30pmVenue: Dunfermline Business

Centre Cost: FreePaid for Advertising24 Oct 9.30am – 12.30pm Venue: Dunfermline Business

Centre Cost: FreeSocial Media Advanced26 Oct 9.30am – 12.30pm Venue: Saltire House, GlenrothesCost: Free

Sales & MarketingProducing Engaging Content3 Oct 9.30am – 12.30pm Venue: Dunfermline Business

Centre Cost: FreeThe Secrets of Content MarketingRevealed9 Oct 9.30am – 12.30pm Venue: Saltire House, GlenrothesCost: Free

For further information about Business Gateway Fife events call: 01592 858333 or visit:www.businessgatewayfife.com

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FIFE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE EVENTSFife Social12 Oct 4.30pm – 7pm Venue: University of St Andrews

Medicine School, North Haugh, KY16 9TF

Fife Social7 Nov 4.30pm – 7pm Venue: Bridge Systems, 4 Castle

Court, Carnegie Campus, KY11 8PB

Fife Social – Christmas event5 Dec 4.30pm – 7pm Venue: Kingdom FM, Mitchelston

Industrial Estate, KY1 3WEFife Chamber Christmas Lunch8 Dec 12noon – 3pm Venue: Dean Park Hotel, Kirkcaldy

FIFE COUNCIL ECONOMICDEVELOPMENT EVENTSSDP Event2.2. Finding and UnderstandingFramework Opportunities 13 Dec 10am – 1pm Venue: Carnegie Conference

Centre, Dunfermline Cost: Free

Trade Shows and ExhibitionsBBC Food Show20 – 22 OctoberVenue: SEC, Glasgowwww.bbcgoodfoodshow.com/glasgow

Advanced Engineering1 – 2 November Venue: NEC, Birminghamwww.easyfairs.com/advanced-engineering-2017

Productronika14 – 17 NovemberVenue: Munich Trade Fair Centrewww.productronica.com

Scotland Build22 – 23 NovemberVenue: SEC, Glasgowwww.scotlandbuildexpo.com

Offshore DecommissioningConference 201727 – 29 NovemberVenue: Fairmont Hotel, St Andrewshttp://decomnorthsea.com/events/offshore-decommissioning-conference-2017

For further information about Fife Chamber events, email:[email protected]

For further information about Fife CouncilEconomic Development events, email: [email protected]

HOW BUSINESS GATEWAY FIFE HELPEDLocal Skincare specialist achieves glowing results

Julia Hart Skincare Clinic has expanded after just six months in itsnew home in Dunfermline. Through the help of Business Gateway Fife,Julia secured funding towards the creation of her medical-grade treatment room in Chalmers Street

Having qualified as a registered general nurse,

Julia became increasingly interested in the

structure and function of the skin. She said:

“It’s taken many years of study and practice in

the field to become an expert in both the

anatomy and the physiology of skin and face.

"We’ve seen a massive increase in the number

of people wanting to take care of their skin,

particularly those with medical problems who

are then investing in facials to increase glow

and support skin function.

“I’ve invested a lot in the clinic and with the

help of my Business Gateway adviser I was

able to secure funding from Fife Council and

access the support I needed to prepare, launch

and succeed in business.”

I would recommend using

Business Gateway Fife for its

great support and advice.

How BGF helped Julia:

•1:1 advice

• Expert Help

• Access to Funding

OFFSHORE EUROPEDelegation returns full of positivity

SPOTLIGHT ON LEADERSHIPDeveloping successful leadership programme

FIFE BUSINESS WEEK Inspiring programme of eventsfrom 6th – 10th November

ENTERPRISE HUB FIFEA thriving new Business Hub

fbmFIFE BUSINESS MATTERS www.fifebusinessmatters.co.uk

40ISSUE

AUTUMN 2017

Fife BusinessNews

INSIDE: MAKING IT IN FIFE

SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT

FOCUSING ON

MANUFACTURING

IN FIFE

COORSTEK HELPS FIGHT CANCER

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OFFSHORE EUROPE SPOTLIGHT ON LEADERSHIP … · OFFSHORE EUROPE Delegation returns full of positivity SPOTLIGHT ON LEADERSHIP Developing successful leadership programme FIFE BUSINESS